Major boost on road to Canning Town regeneration

The Government has approved an £18 million funding package for Newham Council that will help kick-start the regeneration programme in one of the borough’s most deprived areas.

The Communities and Local Government department is providing money through its Community Infrastructure Fund for major improvements to the junction of the A13 at Canning Town - one of the major road arteries in and out of the borough.

Councillor Conor McAuley, Newham’s executive member for regeneration, said: “This is brilliant news because the current A13 roundabout, slip roads and flyover are a major obstacle to regenerating Canning Town and Custom House.

“The redesign of the current road system will act as a catalyst for private investment required in the area. Most importantly it will reconnect communities which have been divided by the A13.”

This project is seen as the single most important initiative that will breathe a new lease of life into Canning Town.

The London Thames Gateway Development Corporation is working in partnership with the council to create a vibrant, accessible and safe town centre with a mix of modern and independent shops, attractive public spaces, quality homes and successful businesses.

Peter Andrews, chief executive of the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation, said: “This is one of the most exciting regeneration projects in the capital and will see the delivery of 1,800 new homes and around 60,000 square metres of retail and commercial space.

“Design work for removal of the A13 roundabout is well under way and the completed project will create a continuous pedestrian connection north and south of the A13 and breath much needed life and vitality into the area.”

Transport benefits from the roundabout realignment scheme will include:

• Improved road safety with a reduction of accidents on existing slip roads
• Additional footpaths and pedestrian crossings
• New cycle ways
• Improved connections between public transport stations and the future town centre
   

Work will now get under way to secure planning permission and complete the project by September 2011.